Volksmarching
Volksmarch Background:
The Kimberley Volksmarch Club
was formed in 1987. It has arranged and held events every year since then.
"Volksmarching" sounds imposing, but simply means "people
walking". The idea originated in the German-speaking countries of Europe as
a means of popularizing enjoyable and healthy forms of exercise. It also
provides an alternative to competitive sports.
In addition to walking, events
may also be organized in bicycling, cross-country skiing and swimming. Whatever
the event, the basic purpose is the same: that is, to offer non-competitive
events, which will attract people of all kinds and ages, to participate in
health-promoting activities in a manner that they will enjoy - and want to do
again!
Participants choose their own
start times, their own speed, and may choose whether to travel alone or with
companions. Family groupings are very popular, with parents carrying the really
little ones on their backs. It is also a pleasant way to meet other people
whether locals or visitors.
Some people make a real hobby
out of Volksmarching (or Volksporting). They purchase "passports" in
which to record all the events in which they participate. They then look for
cities and other communities which offer volkssporting events and plan their
holidays in order to participate in these and get their Volksport passports
stamped.
If you'd like to find out
more about Volksporting in
Canada contact the Volksport
Federation.
